Modern World Civilization

Topic: Clash of Civilization

Handout Twelve 

OUTLINE: 

XII. The Clash of Civilizations.

1. Introduction.
2. Rise of Iraq.
3. The First Gulf War.
4. OBL and World Terrorism.
5. Conclusions.

 QUESTIONS: 

1. How did Saddam come to power and why did we first support him in the Iraq-Iran War?
2. The Shah of Iran was a long time friend of the United States. Matter of fact, the United States and Britain actually helped topple the legitimate government and restore the Shah to his throne. Why did the Americans actively intervene? What was the long-term impact of that action?
3. Why did the Iranians, especially the radical Muslim elements, hate the United States with such a passion?
4. Why did Saddam attack Kuwait? Was Saddam a real threat to Saudi Arabia? What was the impact did the introduction of American forces have on the region?
5. What accounts for the rise of Islamic fundamentalism throughout the Middle East? What part did the Saudis play in the process?
6. Who were the targets of the fundamentalists?
7. Why did the Americans fail to pick up the warnings of an impending attack on the United States in the fall of 2001? Was the attack ordained? Could it have been avoided?

 TERMS:

 Saddam Hussein

SAVAK

Khomeini

Mosaddig

Iranian Hostage Crisis

Al Sabah Family

Rumaylah Oil Fields

Coca Colanization

Wahhabism

Taliban